Syrian forces have carried out their fiercest assault on the militant stronghold of Jobar in Damascus since the start of the three-year war, conducting at least 27 air strikes.

The government is trying to retake Jobar after the capture of several militant-held areas around the center of the capital this summer, including the town of Mleiha just outside Damascus on August 14.

Jobar was seized by terrorist groups over a year ago, and the area has since endured ongoing ground shelling by government missile batteries located in Damascus city center.

State-run television said the army had gained ground in Jobar, located on the eastern outskirts of Damascus, and aired footage of rubble and tunnels it said had been used by militants. It also showed multiple explosions and smoke clouds coming from crumbling high-rise buildings.

Militants active there include the al-Qaeda affiliated al-Nusra Front along with various Syrian terrorist brigades.